COMMENTARY

Don Atkin

ORDER IS BORN THROUGH RELATIONSHIPS

[Name] and I spent about four fruitful hours with [Name] and [Name] tonight.  [Name] and I both repented to one another without shame. 

We cleared up some miscommunication.  We challenged one another on several points.  We agreed that our gifting or training could be a help or hindrance to our spiritual discernment.  We agreed that God had placed us together and that it was up to us to make it work and that sometimes, not being honored for what we are is the cross we walk with for the sake of the Kingdom.

Great night,

[Name]

I received this email report today regarding a relational situation in the leadership of a relating church.  The wonderful conclusion came after several days of agonizing prayer and discussion between [Name] and me.

Let me draw a few points that may be of general benefit.

1. I have sensed all along that God had placed these two men together.  Yet, they needed to rediscover that for themselves through a painful process. 
2. It usually takes some time for issues to build up to the blowing point, and then some more time for things to cool before the parties involved can get back in the Spirit, and find grace to humble themselves.
3. Humility is the unavoidable ingredient.  God opposes the proud, and gives grace to the humble.  To cling to our rights in self-preservation will inevitably lead to the rock falling upon and crushing us.  How much better to fall upon the Rock in humility and repentance, and release the other party through forgiveness.
4. Paul said, “I die daily.”  What a way to live!  His resurrection life is released in us as we embrace the cross in our lives.

I am rejoicing this morning in the faithfulness of God, who has patiently worked in the hearts of my two friends so that they might enjoy this victory together.

Kingdom order is born through relationships.  It does not work the other way around!